Sydney Taylor Book Award

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The Sydney Taylor Book Award recognizes the best in Jewish children's literature. Medals are awarded annually for outstanding books that authentically portray the Jewish experience. The award was established in 1968 by the Association of Jewish Libraries. It is named in memory of Sydney Taylor, author of the classic All-of-a-Kind Family series. Taylor's were some of the first children's books with Jewish characters that were of literary interest to readers of all backgrounds.

[edit] Awards

Awards are presented in two categories: Younger Readers and Older Readers. In each category, one gold medalist is named annually. Each year there may also be several silver medalists named in each category. A list of ten to twenty Notable Children's Books of Jewish Content is also named in each category, but these titles do not receive medals.

[edit] Themes

Most Sydney Taylor Book Award winning titles are universal in theme while Judaic in specific content, and will be of interest to Jewish and non-Jewish readers alike. However, for readers who have very little familiarity with Jewish culture and are seeking introductory materials, the Association of Jewish Libraries has produced a useful bibliography entitled Jewish Stars.

[edit] Resources

Extensive information about the Sydney Taylor Book Awards may be found at this web page. Resources include a history of the award, a brief biography of Sydney Taylor, links to information about past award winners, and ordering information for award publications, posters, and medals. Specialized information is provided for the media, for publishers, for librarians and educators, and for booksellers.